The borderlands lying between England and North Wales have been disputed by the two nations since the Middle Ages.  A series of invasions down the centuries left a legacy of hill top fortresses, castles and walled towns.  Prosperity and peace during the Medieval period resulted in the region finally blossoming like a desert after rain, with a wealth of architectural treasures, grand houses and sumptuous monuments.  This specially themed break is a mock “Welsh” Christmas with all the trimmings.  A programme of entertainment and festive fun is to be enjoyed together with beautiful excursions in the surrounding area.

BEAUFORT PARK HOTEL, Mold

One of Wales most successful independent 3 star hotels, perfectly situated in “The Lands Between” with a wealth of historic sightseeing close to hand.  Wat’s Dyke runs through the extensive grounds and the original farmhouse that occupied the site still stands opposite the hotel.  All the well appointed bedrooms offer private bathroom, tea tray, telephone, satellite tv, trouser press and hair-dryer. There is no lift although a number of ground or first floor rooms are available.  The large bar area extends into the conservatory for dining where attentive and friendly service provides specially prepared festive fayre.   You are assured a warm Welsh welcome at the Beaufort Park.

ITINERARY

MONDAY – Morning departure from Dorset heading northwards to Worcester with time for sightseeing and lunch.  This afternoon continue to Mold with tea and mince pies on arrival.  Dinner is served in the Westminster suite followed by bingo then music.  Guess the name of the Teddy, and weight of the Christmas Cake – winner takes them home!

TUESDAY –.  A full day to Chester.  Experience the mix of history, culture shopping and fun that is this fascinating city of great walls, black and white buildings and 900 year old cathedral.  This evening enjoy a festive quiz after dinner – prizes to be won!

WEDNESDAY – Morning visit to Afon Wen Craft Centre where local artists and craftsmen keep alive the traditions of times gone by.  Continue to the walled town of Denbigh with its magnificent castle and grand medieval “white church”.  Be sure to return to the hotel for a Traditional Christmas Lunch with a visit from Santa!  This evening after a buffet dinner join the dancing late into the night.

THURSDAY – Morning visit to Ruthin, one of the most picturesque historic towns in NE Wales with time for sightseeing.  Continue to Llangollen, a delightful town nestling deep in the Dee Valley.  After lunch we shall join a two hour canal barge cruise through the beautiful Vale of Llangollen and across the famous Pontcysllte Aqueduct – the UK’s largest navigable  aqueduct that towers 126 ft high and runs over 1,000 feet long to cross the River Dee.

Tonight we are treated to a traditional Welsh night with themed menu, a local harpist and Male voice choir.

FRIDAY – Leaving Mold this morning we head southbound and break our journey at the famous Gloucester Docks for lunch.  Return to Dorset by early evening.

TOUR PRICE : £259.00 per person

Single Room Supplement : £30.00    Travel Insurance Premium : £11.00 per person

Price Includes : All coach travel, 4 nights hotel accommodation, Half board meals throughout plus one Christmas Lunch, Entertainment programme at hotel, Barge cruise fare, Financial protection insurance and VAT.  Entertainment programme may vary.